Security tightened in Mogadishu as Somalia prepares for presidential election

Security has been beefed up in the Somali capital, Mogadishu, following the final preparations for the presidential election.

Brigadier General Keith Katungi, commander of the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) in Somalia, who while inspecting polling stations, urged ATMIS officials to take responsibility for the security of the Afisyoni tent.

The Brigadier General is working closely with the Chairman of the Electoral Security Commission and Commander of the Somali Police Force. He also met with several members, including Speaker of the Upper House, Abdi Hashi Abdullahi, and briefed them on security arrangements for lawmakers and other election related issues.

However, internal security, including security at the polling station, is under Ugandan control.

The final preparations for the presidential election, which is expected to take place on Sunday, May 15 have already begun, with the conclusion of the candidates’ speeches yesterday.
About 40 candidates, including incumbent President Farmajo, are running in the by-elections.